Curbing Holiday Stress

The holidays can bring a lot of joy, but they can also come with tension, expectations, and emotional ups and downs. Instead of waiting for the stress to hit, you can set yourself up with the right mindset ahead of time. A little preparation now can make the season feel calmer, steadier, and a lot more enjoyable.

Here are some simple ways to get your mind ready before the holiday rush begins.

Move Your Body Ahead of Time

Exercise is one of the best ways to prepare your mind for stress. Even a short walk can lower tension, boost your mood, and help regulate your nervous system. A little movement before family gatherings or busy days goes a long way.

Fuel Your Body Well

What you eat affects how you feel. Eating balanced meals beforehand and being mindful of foods that trigger discomfort or irritability can help you stay steady. You do not need to restrict yourself, just support your body so you feel your best going in.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration is one of the simplest ways to support your mood and reduce stress. Being even mildly dehydrated can make you feel tired, foggy, or irritable. A glass of water before events or busy days can help you stay grounded and clear-headed.

Set Realistic Expectations

You do not need to create a picture-perfect holiday. Give yourself permission to keep things simple, adjust traditions, and focus on what matters most to you. Reducing pressure now helps protect your well-being later.

Identify Your Stress Triggers

Think back on past years. What usually pushes you over the edge? Travel, tight schedules, family dynamics, cooking, or financial strain? Naming your triggers ahead of time helps you prepare for them instead of getting blindsided.

Build a Recharge Plan

Decide in advance how you will take care of yourself. Maybe it is a morning routine, an afternoon break, a walk between events, or getting to bed earlier. Planning rest ahead of time sets you up for success.

Line Up Your Support

Choose one or two people you can lean on if things get overwhelming. Just knowing you have someone to talk to lowers stress going into the season.

Lean Into What Brings You Joy

Think about the parts of the holidays that genuinely make you feel good. Make space for those early and often. When you intentionally add joy, stress has less room to take hold.